Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jun 20: A majority of Americans believe the United States is not doing enough to educate citizens about government, democracy and constitutional principles, according to a new national poll by NBC News sponsored by More Perfect.
The survey of 3,000 adults found that 80 per cent of respondents feel the country places too little emphasis on civic education, including 51 per cent who said the focus is “much too little”.
The concern cuts across political and age groups, with 87 per cent of progressives and 84 per cent of MAGA Republicans agreeing that civic education receives insufficient attention.
The findings come nearly 250 years after America’s founding leaders, including Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, argued that an informed citizenry was essential for democracy.
The poll also highlighted declining trust in major institutions. Only 12 per cent of Americans expressed confidence in Congress, while 18 per cent trusted the federal government. Local governments received slightly higher confidence levels at 27 per cent.
The national news media recorded the lowest confidence level, with only 11 per cent of respondents expressing trust.
Colleges and universities were among the more trusted institutions, with just over one-third of Americans expressing confidence in them. Public schools received 30 per cent confidence, a figure largely unchanged since 2000.
On the question of presidential power and constitutional checks and balances, Americans were evenly divided. About 48 per cent said the country needs strong executive leadership that can act without waiting for Congress and the Supreme Court, while an equal 48 per cent warned that such concentration of power could be dangerous.
The latest figures show a slight shift compared to a similar 1976 poll, when more Americans supported the need for strong leadership.
The survey also found that half of Americans believe the constitutional system of government has remained effective and is capable of meeting future challenges. Around 18 per cent said changing times have made the current system outdated and that a new form of government may eventually be required.
Despite political divisions, the poll revealed some optimism among Americans. A 54 per cent majority said most Americans share the same core values but disagree mainly over politics and issues.
Across political and demographic groups, family and freedom were identified as the two most important personal values.